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Attorney General Loretta Lynch denounced the sniper attack that killed five police officers in Dallas on Thursday, urging people to reflect on "the country that we want to build and the kind of society that we are choosing to pass on to our children." (Published Friday, July 8, 2016)

As news of the ambush and slaying of five police officers following a peaceful Dallas protest on Thursday began to break, city leaders, politicians and celebrities began to issue statements on social media.

"Murdering the innocent is always evil, never more so than when the lives taken belong to those who protect our families and communities," said Former President George W. Bush, who resides in Dallas with his wife Barbara.

Both presidential candidates reacted to the tragedy. Donald Trump offered prayers and condolences then postponed a speech on economic opportunity in Miami. Hillary Clinton tweeted, "I mourn for the officers who were shot while doing their sacred duty," and canceled a campaign stop in Scranton, Pennsylvania, with Vice President Joe Biden.

House Speaker Paul Ryan said anger over the police shootings in Dallas must not be allowed to harden the nation's divisions. Speaking Friday on the House Floor, Ryan said it had been a "long month for America" and that the nation has seen terrible and senseless things.

There has been a vicious, calculated and despicable attack on law enforcement. Police in Dallas were on duty, doing their jobs, keeping people safe during peaceful protests. These law enforcement officers were targeted and nearly a dozen officers were shot; five were killed. As I told Mayor Rawlings, I believe that I speak for every single American when I say that we are horrified over these events and that we stand united with the people and police department in Dallas.President Barack Obama

To say that our police officers put their life on the line every day is no hyperbole ladies and gentlemen. It’s a reality. Mike Rawlings, Dallas Mayor

Canadians are shocked by the cowardly attacks against police in Dallas. Our solidarity is with all victims of violence on this tragic week.

We’re continuing to ask for the public’s prayers and supports and encouragement but I can just tell you I’ve never been more proud of a police officer or being a part of this great noble profession. Seeing the courage, the professionalism and just the grit to stay on scene in an area looking for suspects, knowing that we are vulnerable. We don’t know where they are.David Brown, Dallas Chief of Police

These officers have given everything to serve the citizens of Dallas, and our thoughts and prayers are with their families.Ron Pinkston, President, Dallas Police Association

This is another senseless shooting. This time the innocent victims were officers. Our condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those DART and Dallas Police Officers.Texas Sen. Royce West, (D) District 23

Our thoughts and prayers are with the police officers who were shot in #Dallas tonight. Awaiting further details.